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Did you know that Southwark, a vibrant riverside district in London, is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and modern attractions? This historic area has become a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and world-class views.
As you explore Southwark’s top attractions, you’ll discover a district that seamlessly blends the old with the new. From historic markets to modern skyscrapers, there’s something for everyone in this exciting part of London. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, this guide will help you navigate the best attractions and experiences that Southwark has to offer.
Discovering Southwark: London’s Historic Riverside District
You’re just a step away from discovering Southwark, a fascinating London district that boasts an incredible array of historical and cultural gems. Southwark’s rich history is palpable as you wander through its streets, taking in the blend of old and new.
Where Is Southwark Located?
Southwark is situated on the south bank of the River Thames, directly across from the City of London. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible by various means of transport. London Bridge Station serves as a major transport hub, providing both underground and national rail services.
Getting to and Around Southwark
Getting to Southwark is straightforward, thanks to its excellent transport links. You can reach Southwark via London Bridge Station, which is served by the Northern and Jubilee lines of the London Underground, as well as Thameslink, Southern Trains, and South Eastern Trains. Once in Southwark, you can explore its diverse areas on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll along the river on the Queen’s Walk, enjoying the views of the Thames and iconic London landmarks.
Other transport options include numerous bus routes that connect Southwark to other parts of London, and river services from piers along the Thames, offering a unique perspective on the district.
The Shard: London’s Iconic Skyscraper
As you explore the London Borough of Southwark, one landmark that stands out is The Shard, London’s tallest skyscraper. The Shard is not just an architectural marvel but also a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Viewing London from Above
The Shard offers visitors a chance to experience London from a new perspective. You can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its viewing platform. The height provides a unique vantage point, making it easy to spot London’s famous landmarks.
Dining with a View at Aqua Shard
For a more accessible way to enjoy The Shard’s spectacular views, head up to Aqua Shard on the 31st floor. Here, you can enjoy contemporary British cuisine while taking in the breathtaking views. The restaurant’s elegant setting and floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that every table has a great view.
Some highlights of dining at Aqua Shard include:
– Enjoying breakfast with the views thrown in for free on level 31.
– Savoring contemporary British cuisine in an elegant setting.
– Relaxing in the stylish bar area with cocktails against London’s skyline.
Reservations are essential, especially for window tables, as this is one of London’s most sought-after dining experiences.
Tower Bridge: London’s Most Famous Bridge
When visiting London, a trip to Tower Bridge is essential, offering a blend of history, engineering, and spectacular views. You can tour the bridge at the Tower Bridge Exhibition, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and engineering of this iconic structure.
Walking Across the Thames
As you walk across the Thames on the high-level walkways, you can enjoy spectacular city views. The walkways, originally designed for pedestrians to cross when the bridge was raised, now feature glass floors in sections, allowing you to experience the thrill of standing directly above the Thames and traffic below.
Tower Bridge Exhibition and Engine Rooms
The Tower Bridge Exhibition is a highlight of any visit to London, offering a tour of the bridge’s history and engineering. A key part of this exhibition is the Victorian Engine Rooms, where you can see the original steam engines that once powered the bridge’s bascule lifting mechanism. Interactive displays throughout the exhibition bring to life the stories of the people who built, operated, and maintained the bridge throughout its history.
The combination of historical information, engineering insights, and spectacular views makes the Tower Bridge Exhibition worthwhile for those interested in London’s architectural heritage, despite some visitors finding the admission price steep.
Borough Market: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Step into Borough Market, and you’ll be transported to a world of flavors from around the globe. This historic market is a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast.
Exploring Britain’s Oldest Food Market
Borough Market is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s an experience. With its roots dating back to the 12th century, it’s one of London’s oldest and most revered food markets. As you walk through the market, you’ll discover a wide range of artisanal food stalls and producers.
Must-Try Food Stalls and Specialties
The market is home to a diverse array of food stalls, each offering something unique. Some must-try stalls include:
- Borough Cheese Company for their renowned Comte cheese.
- Bread Ahead for their legendary doughnuts.
- Tartufaia for their truffle-infused offerings.
- Kappacasein for their grilled cheese sandwiches made with a blend of artisanal cheeses.
- Richard Haward for fresh oysters shucked to order.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and British or international cuisine, Borough Market has something for everyone.
Shakespeare’s Globe: Step Back in Time
Immerse yourself in Elizabethan theatre at Shakespeare’s Globe, a vibrant cultural hub. This iconic reconstruction of London’s original playhouse offers a unique theatrical experience.
Tours of the Reconstructed Elizabethan Playhouse
Explore the theatre through guided tours, which provide insight into its history and architecture. You can learn about the construction of the Globe and its significance in Shakespeare’s time.
Catching a Performance at the Globe
Watching a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe is an experience unlike any other. Productions are staged much as they would have been in Shakespeare’s day, with period costumes and minimal sets. You can choose between seated tickets or standing tickets in the yard as a “groundling.”
The globe hosts a variety of performances, from Shakespeare’s classics to works by his contemporaries, typically from April to October.
Maritime History: HMS Belfast and The Golden Hinde
Step into the maritime history of London with a visit to the HMS Belfast and The Golden Hinde. These two historic vessels offer a glimpse into London’s rich naval past, from wartime service to pioneering exploration.
Exploring the WWII Warship HMS Belfast
The HMS Belfast is a WWII warship that served during the Cold War. You can explore its nine decks, learning about the daily life of its crew and its significant role in history. As you walk through the ship, you’ll gain insight into the challenging conditions faced by sailors during wartime.
Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hinde Replica
The Golden Hinde is a full-size, seaworthy replica of Sir Francis Drake’s famous galleon, which circumnavigated the globe from 1577 to 1580. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, experiencing the cramped conditions in which Drake’s crew lived for nearly three years. This historic vessel provides a tangible connection to the Age of Exploration.
By visiting both the HMS Belfast and The Golden Hinde, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of London’s maritime history and the significant role these vessels played in shaping the city’s past.
London Borough of Southwark, England: Best Things to Do for History Buffs
As you explore the London Borough of Southwark, you’ll uncover a wealth of historical attractions that are sure to captivate history buffs. The area is steeped in history, with landmarks that date back centuries.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum
The Old Operating Theatre Museum is a unique historical site that showcases the area’s medical history.Located in the attic of St Thomas’ Church, the museum features a collection of medical artifacts and equipment used in the 19th century. You can explore the operating theater and learn about the history of medical practices during that time.
Southwark Cathedral and The Clink Prison Museum
Southwark Cathedral, despite being granted cathedral status in 1905, has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years. It served as Shakespeare’s parish church when he worked at the nearby Globe Theatre. The cathedral’s architecture spans several periods, with elements dating from the 13th century onwards.
| Historical Site | Century | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Southwark Cathedral | 13th | Shakespeare’s parish church |
| The Clink Prison Museum | 12th | Notorious prison that operated until 1780 |
The Clink Prison Museum, located just a short walk from the cathedral, is situated on the site of one of England’s oldest and most notorious prisons. The museum recreates the grim conditions of the original prison, displaying replicas of torture devices and punishment methods.
Modern Southwark: City Hall and More London
As you explore modern Southwark, you’ll discover a vibrant riverside area that’s perfect for a day out. The area is surrounded by stunning views of the Thames and offers a variety of activities to enjoy.
Exploring the Riverside Development
The riverside development in Southwark is a great place to visit, with plenty of restaurants and cafes offering outdoor seating. You can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the views of the river. The area is also home to various public art installations, adding to its cultural charm.
Events and Activities at The Scoop
The Scoop, an 800-seat amphitheater next to City Hall, hosts a range of free events during the summer, including film screenings, live music, and theatrical performances. You can enjoy these events while taking in the stunning backdrop of Tower Bridge. Even when there are no scheduled events, The Scoop remains a pleasant public space where you can relax and enjoy the riverside atmosphere.
Historic Pubs and Modern Bars in Southwark
You can experience the best of Southwark’s drinking scene by visiting its historic pubs and modern bars. Southwark offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary nightlife.
The Anchor and The George Inn
Southwark is home to some of London’s oldest and most historic pubs, including The Anchor and The George Inn. These establishments offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
The Anchor is known for its traditional pub atmosphere, while The George Inn is one of the oldest surviving galleried coaching inns.
Contemporary Bars and Nightlife
After a day of sightseeing, Southwark offers plenty of contemporary bars where you can unwind. Bermondsey Street has emerged as a trendy nightlife destination, with bars like The Hide Bar offering craft cocktails and gins in a stylish setting.
Many of Southwark’s modern bars double as excellent restaurants during the day, transforming into buzzing cocktail spots as evening falls. The area around Flat Iron Square and Vinegar Yard has become a vibrant nightlife hub, with food markets transitioning into evening venues with live music and DJs.
Planning Your Visit to Southwark
As you plan your trip to London, consider making Southwark a key part of your itinerary. With plenty of attractions and things to do, this area is a great place to stay, especially if you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and entertainment.
The area around London Bridge and The Shard offers a range of hotels to suit different budgets, from luxury properties with river views to more affordable boutique hotels on quieter streets. You can easily spend 2-3 days exploring Southwark, taking in its many attractions, museums, and restaurants.
- Plan your trip around the attractions that are within walking distance of each other to make the most of your time.
- Visit Borough Market mid-week to avoid the crowds that flock there on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Take in the views of the city at different times of day to experience the full range of what Southwark has to offer, from morning light on the river to the illuminated cityscape in the evening.
With new things to discover all the time, Southwark is a dynamic part of London that rewards repeat visits. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this exciting area.
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The above is subject to change.
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